Merkley criticized recent federal deployments of National Guard troops into cities like Portland and Chicago, describing these actions as unjustified and politically motivated, especially in Democratic-leaning areas.

Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon has been conducting a marathon speech on the Senate floor for over 17 hours as a protest against President Trump's policies and the ongoing government shutdown, which has become the second-longest in U.S. history.

Merkley's speech focuses on the need to extend COVID-related healthcare subsidies set to expire in 2025, with Democrats demanding this extension amid a shutdown debate that highlights partisan disagreements over funding solutions.

During his speech, Merkley blamed Republicans for the shutdown, accusing them of using it as a strategy to cut healthcare and suppress dissent, while raising concerns about increasing authoritarian tendencies in the current administration.

He warned that 'tyranny has already arrived' in the U.S., citing erosion of the separation of powers, a compliant Congress, and an authoritarian leadership style as signs of this threat.

His speech aims to raise alarm over what he describes as an 'authoritarian takeover' and policies that favor billionaires over families, emphasizing the importance of confronting these issues early.

Merkley accused President Trump of undermining the Constitution through actions such as halting research grants, indicting political opponents, deploying troops to Portland, and spreading misinformation to justify authoritarian measures.

The ongoing shutdown has caused widespread disruptions, including unpaid federal workers, delays in federal and state funding, and risks to essential services like SNAP and heating aid for vulnerable populations.

Merkley, nearing 69 years old, has spoken continuously for over 17 hours, highlighting the physical toll and his commitment to raising awareness about the political crisis.

Throughout his speech, Merkley stood next to a sign warning 'Authoritarianism is here now,' emphasizing the urgency of confronting rising authoritarianism in America.

This marathon speech is part of a broader pattern of procedural resistance by Democrats, with previous efforts by Senators Cory Booker and Hakeem Jeffries to oppose GOP legislation.

Merkley took brief pauses during his speech, including one at 2:45 a.m. to untie his shoelace, demonstrating his dedication despite the physical strain.

Support for Merkley's stand has come from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and other Democrats, while Republicans criticized the protest for disrupting Senate operations and politicizing the shutdown.